What Bike Does Tom Cruise Ride in Top Gun?
The iconic 1986 film Top Gun has left an indelible mark on popular culture, and one of the most memorable scenes is when Tom Cruise’s character, Maverick, rides a sleek and powerful motorcycle. But what bike does Tom Cruise ride in Top Gun?
The Motorcycle in Top Gun
The motorcycle featured in Top Gun is a Kawasaki Z1300, a high-performance motorcycle produced by Kawasaki Heavy Industries from 1979 to 1989. The Z1300 was a flagship model for Kawasaki, known for its impressive power output, handling, and style.
The Bike’s Features
Here are some key features of the Kawasaki Z1300:
- Engine: The Z1300 was powered by a 1,340cc, 4-stroke, inline-four engine that produced 125 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: The bike had a 5-speed manual transmission with a wet clutch.
- Brakes: The Z1300 featured dual 12-inch disc brakes in the front and a single 12-inch disc brake in the rear.
- Suspension: The bike had a telescopic fork in the front and a monoshock in the rear.
- Wheels: The Z1300 had 18-inch cast aluminum wheels with 120/80-18 tires in the front and 160/60-18 tires in the rear.
Why the Kawasaki Z1300?
So, why did the filmmakers choose the Kawasaki Z1300 for Maverick’s motorcycle? According to an interview with the film’s production designer, Hank Moon, the team wanted a bike that was "big, bold, and American." The Z1300 fit the bill, with its powerful engine and aggressive styling.
Riding the Bike
Tom Cruise, who is an experienced motorcycle rider, rode the bike himself during filming. In an interview with Motorcycle Classics, Cruise recalled that the bike was "a beast" and that he had to wear a special harness to prevent him from flying off the bike during stunts.
The Bike’s Popularity
The Kawasaki Z1300 has become an iconic motorcycle, thanks in part to its appearance in Top Gun. The bike has gained a cult following among motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors, with many seeking out the model for its unique styling and performance.
Other Bikes in Top Gun
While the Kawasaki Z1300 is the most iconic bike in Top Gun, other motorcycles also make appearances in the film. These include:
- Harley-Davidson Electra Glide: The bike ridden by Maverick’s Radar Intercept Officer (RIO), Goose.
- Yamaha XS650: The bike ridden by Maverick’s rival, Iceman.
- Honda CB750: The bike ridden by the film’s antagonist, Tom "Iceman" Kazansky.
Conclusion
The Kawasaki Z1300 is an iconic motorcycle that has become synonymous with the Top Gun franchise. Its powerful engine, aggressive styling, and memorable appearance in the film have made it a cult classic among motorcycle enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of the film or a motorcycle enthusiast, the Kawasaki Z1300 is a bike that’s sure to get your heart racing.
Table: Kawasaki Z1300 Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1,340cc, 4-stroke, inline-four |
| Power | 125 horsepower |
| Torque | 83 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Brakes | Dual 12-inch disc brakes (front), single 12-inch disc brake (rear) |
| Suspension | Telescopic fork (front), monoshock (rear) |
| Wheels | 18-inch cast aluminum (front and rear) |
Bullets: Key Features of the Kawasaki Z1300
• Powerful engine with 125 horsepower and 83 lb-ft of torque
• 5-speed manual transmission with wet clutch
• Dual 12-inch disc brakes in the front and single 12-inch disc brake in the rear
• Telescopic fork in the front and monoshock in the rear
• 18-inch cast aluminum wheels with 120/80-18 tires in the front and 160/60-18 tires in the rear
